When I work with an editor for the first time, I ask a lot of questions. They might include things such as the preferred method of delivery (Word doc? Google doc? Email?), whether they need me to collect images, contracts, payment terms, style guides, preferred affiliates… the list goes on, depending on the outlet.

By asking more questions up front, my goal is to be able to deliver an assignment perfectly to their liking — and in turn, earn the opportunity to do more work with that editor in the future.

I always end my questions the same way: “If there is anything else I can do to help make your job easier, please let me know.” Again, my thinking here is that the more I can make an editor like and respect the way I work with them, the better my chances of building a positive relationship with them that will get me more assignments later.

This simple concept had me thinking about the publicists I enjoy working with the most. Beyond being smart, kind, respectful people, my favorite people in PR also take extra steps to help make my job easier. I greatly appreciate this — who doesn’t want to work more efficiently? — and it absolutely makes me give preference to these people in the future.

How can PR make freelance writers’ jobs easier, and in turn earn more opportunities to work with these writers? Take note of these 25 small gestures that can deliver big payoff in terms of relationship building. The little things are big things.

1.  Research what they cover ahead of pitching.

2. Develop thoughtful pitches they would reasonably cover.

3. Write to-the-point, clear, informative subject lines.

4. Keep emails to a few sentences or short paragraphs.

5.  Personalize pitches.

6.  Don’t send massive attachments.

7.  Start fresh email chains for new ideas.

8.  Respond promptly, even just to confirm receipt.

9.  Read their emails thoroughly.

10. Answer all questions they ask.

11. Respect their deadlines.

12. Be transparent if you can’t deliver something.

13. Avoid unnecessary emails (such as asking if they need anything else).

14. Ask what format they prefer for interviews and arrange them accordingly.

15. Send prompt calendar invites for interviews and events.

16. Don’t respond to emails with a phone call.

17. Offer to record phone/video interviews and send a link afterward.

18. Confirm exactly how a source should be attributed and linked.

19. Send photos via links that don’t expire.

20. Label photos.

21. Include photographer credits when sending photos.

22. Send only one follow-up.

23. Don’t repeatedly ask when a story will run.

24. Show your appreciation by thanking a writer when a story comes out.

25. Follow through on what you promise.

 

Want to print this list to keep a copy near your desk? Download a PDF of the list here.

Then tell me — what other little things do you do to make writers’ or editors’ jobs easier? I’d love to know!